A DOGGEDLY devoted charity worker has spent half of her life caring for thousands of unwanted and abandoned dogs.
Jo Poyner has worked for Dogs Trust Kenilworth since 1994 and has spent the last 25 years rehoming some 32,000 dogs which have been through the charity’s doors.
The 49-year-old’s earliest memories were caring for ex-racing Greyhounds and Lurchers that were retired from the track and needed new homes.
Back then, there was a team of 20 staff and some 800 dogs were rehomed each year – which is very different to the current team of around 50, including canine carers, vets and behaviourists. Together they care for some 1,300 dogs annually.
Jo said: “The last 25 years have flown by and it’s safe to say I have loved every minute of it. No two days are ever the same and even though a lot has changed since I started, the one thing at the front of my mind every day is to give every single dog in our care everything they need before they go on to find their forever homes.”
Over the years Jo has opened up her home and adopted or fostered around 100 dogs. She currently has Luca the German Shepherd and Bingo the Crossbreed living with her.
She added: “I am definitely of the opinion that a house is not a home without a dog or two and I never tire of seeing dogs trotting off with their new families. I truly believe a dog is for life but in 25 years, the one thing that still shocks me is how dogs are sadly still seen as disposable items.
“I really hope that for the next 25 years and beyond, Dogs Trust can continue to educate dog owners of responsible dog ownership and help them appreciate a dog really is for life and something to commit to and cherish.”
Call 01926 569236 or visit the rehoming centre in Honiley to find out more about the dogs waiting to find new homes.
